Inhibitors of gastric acid secretion drugs increase neonatal morbidity and mortality

Abstract

Aims: To analyze all evidence on the possible increase in morbidity and mortality determined by the use of inhibitors of gastric acid secretion (IGAS) drugs. Materials and Methods: We review all evidence exploring the adverse events associated with IGAS use in neonates. Results: Despite being prescribed in an off-label manner because of the perceived safety and potential benefit demonstrated for older populations, IGAS are being increasingly used in the neonatal period with much evidence derived from adults and children. Few data are available for neonates and indicate an association between IGAS use with infections and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and with an increased mortality. Delayed gastric emptying, increased gastric mucus viscosity, modification in microbiota, and impairment of neutrophils functions are possible mechanisms of adverse events associated with IGAS use. Conclusions: A careful prescription of IGAS is crucial in order to reduce iatrogenic damage in neonates.

Keywords::

• Clostridium difficile
• diarrhea
• histamine-2-receptor antagonists
• necrotizing enterocolitis
• neonatal sepsis
• neonates
• proton pump inhibitors
• ranitidine
• very low birth weight

Declaration of Interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest.